State House Watch: February 22, 2026

“I am an expression of the divine, just like a peach is, just like a fish is. I have a right to be this way...I can't apologize for that, nor can I change it, nor do I want to... We will never have to be other than who we are in order to be successful...We realize that we are as ourselves unlimited and our experiences valid. It is for the rest of the world to recognize this, if they choose.”― Alice Walker, The Color Purple

Greetings, State House Watchers!

May you be nourished by the blessings of Ramadan, Lent, and Black History month, and the beauty of winter!

As we head into New Hampshire’s school vacation week, State House Watchers will get a bit of a breather. There are no sessions in the House or Senate next week, and there are no Senate committee hearings. There are some House committee hearings, however, including one for a bill that would defund the refugee resettlement program in NH, so please make time for a couple of actions even as you enjoy a much-deserved break. 

We’ll begin with the great news that Pastor Steven Tendo has been released from custody! Solidarity vigils were held on Friday morning in Dover, where Steven – a Ugandan pastor, asylum seeker, and health care worker – was being held in ICE custody; Concord, where the US District Court was considering his habeas petition; and Vermont, his current home. When Judge Joseph Laplante granted the motion, Steven was released from detention and by last night had returned to his community where he belongs. Thank you to all who stood with him during this crisis. The muscles and connection we build responding to these calls for support grow our capacity to dismantle and transform the entire system.

We note with sorrow the passing last week of Rev. Jesse Jackson, a lifelong advocate for racial justice, economic justice, and peace. We appreciate this reflection from David Cortright, who worked alongside Jackson in campaigns for nuclear disarmament (Waging Nonviolence, February 20, 2026).

And we’re heartbroken to learn of the death of Dr. Linda Davis, a beloved special education teacher who was killed in Savannah, GA in a car crash caused by ICE’s aggressive and dangerous pursuit of a man accused of a civil violation. Dr. Davis’s life was a witness to love and dedication to her community, and her death is yet another tragic illustration of the danger that ICE and Border Patrol bring to our communities. May her death, like those of Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Keith Porter, and all who have died in ICE custody, galvanize our movement to hold the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accountable and to oppose their assault on human rights and community safety.

The partial government shutdown continues, as Democrats seek to enact reforms and guardrails on immigration enforcement actions. We are grateful for the sustained pressure on DHS, but AFSC and many partners believe that agencies designed to enforce racist laws and enact inhumane policies cannot be reformed and must be dismantled. Read more here: “Reforms” didn’t end police violence in 2020, and they won’t end ICE violence now (Lydia Pelot-Hobbs, Truthout, February 19, 2026). We can create an immigration system that we deserve – one that is humane, dignified, and fair.

Before we move on to New Hampshire news, a call to action: Please urge our Members of Congress to do everything in their power to prevent a war with Iran, end the blockade of fuel that is devastating Cuba, oppose the extrajudicial “boat strikes” in the Caribbean, and protect voting rights. You can find their contact information here. 

ICE out of New Hampshire!
Opposition to a planned detention center in Merrimack, NH is growing stronger by the day. We’re told that 1,800 people gathered on Saturday in a peaceful and spirited protest at the town offices in Merrimack. Read more here, and watch here. Representative Wendy Thomas spoke with Rachel Maddow last week, and Governor Ayotte continued to offer confusing and contradictory assertions about what she knew when about the federal government’s plans for the facility. Latest news reveals that the would-be detention center is situated in a PFAS contamination zone; read more here.

Sign and share this petition today to urge Ayotte to listen to her constituents and take action to stop the facility. And read this reflection about how we resist a concentration camp regime (Kelly Hayes, Movement Memos, February 19, 2026).

In other NH News…
The NH Collective Power Coalition is calling for transparency and accountability for the killing of Nickenly Turenne by Manchester police in December 2025. In a statement released this week, Grace Kindeke and Tanisha Johnson, on behalf of the coalition, expressed concern that the officers involved in the shooting have returned to active duty prior to the conclusion of the investigation, and urged officials to be more forthcoming: “Public trust requires full disclosure. That means the timely release of all relevant information and materials, including body-worn camera footage, reports, and investigative findings. Withholding information, offering partial disclosures, or remaining silent does not preserve integrity; it compounds harm, retraumatizes families, and reinforces the pattern that shields law enforcement from scrutiny and true accountability.” Read the statement here.

We celebrated the announcement last week that the federal government’s anti-DEI directive was terminated, following a NH lawsuit that included the ACLU, the National Education Association, and others. US District Court Judge Landya McCafferty agreed with the plaintiffs that the federal requirements were unconstitutionally vague and discriminatory. Read more here, and here: “This ruling ensures that educators can engage in scholarship and teach history, literature, and other subjects where race, gender, and the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion appear, without fear of arbitrary or discriminatory enforcement,” said Sarah Hinger, deputy director of the ACLU Racial Justice Program, in a statement. “It affirms that educators must be free to teach and that students have a right to a full and honest education that reflects the diversity of their communities and prepares them to participate in our democracy.”

Last week at the State House
We’re happy to report several items of good news from last week: The House defeated four death penalty bills, as well as a proposal to end vaccine mandates; the Senate Executive Departments and Administration Committee unanimously recommended defeat for HB 392, a bill that would eliminate the equity, diversity, and justice offices of various state agencies; and following a public hearing in House Judiciary on Friday, the committee recommended defeat for HB 1564, which would remove all references to gender identity in New Hampshire statutes. Read more good news from 603 Equality here. 

On the other hand, we watched the Senate approve a book ban and parent notification bill, and the House approve a ridiculous proposal to ban “woke” curriculum in public schools. The assault on diversity, equity, inclusion, accurate history, critical thinking, and public education continues….

Other disappointments from last week include rejection – by a party line vote in the Senate – of further funding for the Housing Champions Program, and approval of SB 467, which would introduce the failed policy of mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes. Read more here. We also saw the House pass HB 1499, which would expand the grounds for eviction, and the House Election Law Committee approve HB 1062, authorizing the secretary of state to conduct random audits of the citizenship qualification of registered voters. 

ACTION ALERTS! 
It’s a quieter week ahead, with no House or Senate session days, but there are some important actions to take for some House committee hearings next week and a Senate committee hearing on March 3. Sign in for House bills here. Sign in for Senate bills here. You can also email the committee members: House committees here; Senate committees here.

Monday, February 23
OPPOSE HB 1706, repealing the refugee resettlement program in the department of health and human services and prohibiting expenditure of state funds on refugee resettlement. This harmful bill has a public hearing in the House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee on Monday, February 23 at 1 PM in Room 158, GP. Please join us for visibility at 12:30 PM in the hallway at the doors of Room 158 at Granite Place, and sign in to oppose the bill and offer testimony.  

Wednesday, February 25
OPPOSE HB 1416, prohibiting certain government regulations regarding pregnancy resource centers in connection with abortion and contraception service offerings. From Planned Parenthood: “This bill protects anti-abortion centers (private nonprofits that do not provide or refer for abortion) from state and local regulation related to abortion or contraception information, referrals, or services.” It has a hearing in House Judiciary on Wednesday, February 25 at 10 AM in Room 230, GP. Please sign in to oppose the bill and offer testimony.

OPPOSE HB 1590, harmonizing the age of personhood under the criminal code and the fetal life protection act. Reproductive rights advocates describe this bill as a 20-week abortion ban, with criminal penalties. It has a hearing in House Judiciary on Wednesday, February 25 at 1 PM in Room 230, GP. Join us for visibility at Granite Place at 12:30 PM; wear pink! And please sign in to oppose the bill and offer testimony. 

Tuesday, March 3
OPPOSE HB 348, relative to eligibility for local assistance. From Housing Action NH: “This proposal allows municipalities to impose additional requirements, including proof-of-residency documentation, on individuals seeking public welfare assistance, including rental assistance. Individuals who are unhoused or fleeing domestic violence situations may not have proof of residency documentation, which will leave them with limited options for additional assistance. If the intent of the legislation is to ensure that local tax dollars go to local residents, there is already a process for determining the town of origin.” This harmful bill has a public hearing in Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs on Tuesday, March 3 at 9:30 AM in Room 122-123, SH. Please sign in to oppose and contact the committee to offer testimony.

OPPOSE HB 1252, requiring the department of motor vehicles to only administer the skills test for commercial driver’s licenses in English and prohibiting the support of an interpreter for the administration of the skills test for commercial driver’s licenses. The bill has a public hearing in House Transportation Committee on Tuesday, March 3 at 10:20 AM in Room 234, GP. Please sign in to oppose the bill and offer testimony. 

Key:
GP – Granite Place. More information here.
SH – State House (107 N. Main St. Concord)
SL – State Library
OTP – “Ought to Pass,” the recommendation for approving a bill or an amendment
OTP/A – Ought to Pass with Amendment
ITL – “Inexpedient to Legislate,” the recommendation for defeating a bill or an amendment. 
ITL” can also be used as a verb.
“Without Recommendation” - This indicates that the committee vote was a tie for both ITL and OTP. During the House session, these bills will be considered first as Ought to Pass.
Re-refer – When a Senate committee wishes to hold onto a bill for further consideration. The recommendation to re-refer must be approved in the full Senate. The committee will have until the end of the calendar year to meet about the bill and  make a recommendation for further action. 
Retain – When a House committee wishes to hold onto a bill for further consideration. The committee makes this decision for themselves; approval in the full House is not needed. The committee has until the end of the calendar year to make a recommendation for further action.
RC – Roll call vote. Each legislator’s vote is recorded and attributed to them.
VV – Voice vote
DV – Division vote

Last week in the House
The full House met for legislative business on Thursday, February 19. You can watch it here. Here are the bills we’re tracking which were voted on.

On the Consent Calendar

COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS 
HB 1080-FN, prohibiting the sale of condoms and personal lubricant that contain intentionally added per and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Referred for interim study.
HB 1725-FN, relative to the regulation of artificial intelligence technologies. ITL by VV.
HB 1761-FN, expanding the New Hampshire paid family and medical leave program. Referred for interim study.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY
HB 1087-FN, relative to citizen’s arrests by private persons. ITL by VV.
HB 1413-FN, reinstituting the death penalty in cases of capital murder. ITL by VV.
HB 1587-FN, requiring police body-worn camera footage be subject to the right-to-know law. Referred for interim study.
HB 1730-FN, New Title) enhancing the level of offense for certain sexual offenses. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1737-FN, relative to reinstating the death penalty for certain offenses against minors under 13 years of age. ITL by VV.
HB 1749-FN, reinstating the death penalty for murder offenses. ITL by VV.

EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1778-FN, relative to prohibiting the use of personal identity ideology in public school instruction and policies. ITL by VV.

ELECTION LAW 
HB 1163-FN, requiring the secretary of state to create and maintain a uniform election records management system. ITL by VV.
HB 1429-FN, relative to the hand-counting of ballots at large polling places. ITL by VV.
HB 1520-FN, defining citizenship for the purposes of voting. ITL by VV.

ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE
HB 1621-FN, requiring a baseline environmental impact study to be completed prior to development of certain manufacturing and storage facilities. ITL by VV.
HB 1622-FN, requiring the state to develop additional solid waste disposal capacity. OTP-A by VV.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS & ADMINISTRATION 
HB 1024, prohibiting investments by the New Hampshire retirement system in businesses owned by a sitting president or their family. Referred for interim study.

HOUSING
HB 1143, relative to the remediation of mold in rental housing. ITL by VV.
HB 1371, prohibiting application fees for residential rental agreements. ITL by VV.
HB 1598-FN, relative to notice for tenants and landlords engaged in eviction processes. OTP-A by VV.

JUDICIARY
HB 1671-FN, relative to prohibiting state Medicaid payments to facilities that discriminate against employees, students, or trainees for exercising lawful medical or religious vaccine exemptions. Referred for interim study.

STATE- FEDERAL RELATIONS AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
HR 21, urging New Hampshire’s congressional delegation to support the repeal of the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force. OTP-A by VV.

On the Regular Calendar

EDUCATION FUNDING 
HB 1557-FN, modifying the state average expenditure per pupil relative to students in special education. ITL by RC, 184-157.
HB 1563-FN-L, relative to the special education aid formula. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1574-FN, authorizing school districts to extend free and reduced lunch benefits for special education students. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1791-FN-A, directing the department of education to establish a grant program at the post-secondary educational level for individuals with developmental disabilities, and making an appropriation therefor. ITL by RC, 187-157.
HB 1799-FN, relative to required state funding for providing an opportunity for an adequate education. ITL by RC, 185-159.
HB 1803-FN, rendering a recipient of an education tax credit scholarship ineligible to receive education freedom account funds in the same program year. ITL by RC, 191-157.
HB 1826-FN, relative to the cost of an opportunity for an adequate education. ITL by RC, 192-157.
HB 1831-FN, repealing the education trust fund targeted aid cap. Laid on table.
HB 1835-FN, relative to the formula for distribution of aid to school districts. ITL by VV.

EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1571-FN-A, requiring the department of education to review statewide academic standards and curriculum and making an appropriation therefor. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1792-FN, prohibiting school districts and personnel from the instruction of critical race theory and LGBTQ+ ideologies in schools as well as establishing a private right of action for violations. OTP by RC, 184-164.

ELECTION LAW
HB 1083-FN, requiring the disclosure of the source of certain political donations in state elections. ITL by RC, 188-161.
HB 1600-FN, requiring the division of motor vehicles to make available the opportunity to register to vote at the time of application for or renewal of a drivers license or nondrivers identification card. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1627-FN, creating a single primary ballot. ITL by VV.
HB 1838-FN, establishing a voter-owned elections fund and commission and raising vehicle registration fees. ITL by VV.

HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS
HB 1811-FN, repealing statutory immunization requirements for children. ITL by VV.

HOUSING
HB 1499-FN, relative to additional grounds for eviction under the landlord and tenant statute. OTP-A by RC, 193-154. 
HB 1732-FN, relative to housing accessibility and voucher allocation in new multi-unit developments. ITL by DV, 187-157.
HB 1814-FN, establishing a 10-year strategic housing and infrastructure plan. Laid on table.

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ENERGY
HB 1718-FN, relative to authorizing energy storage in connection with net metering. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1748-FN, establishing the New Hampshire energy efficiency and resource development authority. Referred for interim study.
HB 1775-FN, relative to utility ownership of natural gas and nuclear power generation facilities. OTP-A by RC, 191-149.

Last week in the Senate
The full Senate meet in session last week on Thursday, February 19. You can watch it here. Here are the bills we’re tracking which were voted on.

On the Consent Calendar

COMMERCE 
SB 416, relative to the pooling and sharing of tips among tipped employees. OTP-A by VV.

EDUCATION
SB 429-FN-A, relative to the placement of trauma kits in public schools and making an appropriation therefor. OTP by VV.
SB 517-FN, relative to the responsibility of local school districts to provide meals to students during school hours, reimbursing schools for meals provided to students at no cost, and making an appropriation therefor. OTP by VV.

ELECTION LAW AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS
​​​​SB 437, making a line on the return that enumerates the number of people who attempted to register to vote but were denied registration due to lack of required documentation. ITL by VV.
SB 660, relative to photo identification cards issued solely for the purpose of voting. OTP by VV.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS & ADMINISTRATION
SB 420, relative to the state commission for human rights. Referred for interim study.

FINANCE
SB 407-FN-A, making an appropriation for each full-time student eligible for the in-state tuition rate enrolled in the university system of New Hampshire. Referred for interim study. 
SB 602-FN, relative to the withholding of state payments to the federal government in response to suspended federal aid. ITL by VV.

On the Regular Calendar

EDUCATION
SB 430, relative to mandatory disclosure by school district employees to parents. OTP-A by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 434, relative to regulation of public school materials. OTP-A by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 532, increasing the requirements of the education freedom savings account oversight committee and modifying the purpose of the committee. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 533, requiring the state to seek bids for contracts to oversee and operate the state’s education freedom account program every three years. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 576, adds definitions and reporting requirements relative to education freedom accounts. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 578, extending recess for students from kindergarten to eighth grade and prohibiting the deprivation of recess time as punishment in schools. OTP-A by VV.

ELECTION LAW AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS
SB 587, creating criteria for redistricting of congressional districts, state senate districts, state house of representatives districts, and executive councilor districts. ITL by VV.

FINANCE
CACR 12, relating to voting on broad-based taxes. Providing that a supermajority vote of the general court shall be required to enact any broad-bases taxes. OTP by RC, 16Y-8N. 
SB 419-FN-A, relative to the housing champion designation and program and the affordable housing fund, and making appropriations therefor. Referred for interim study.
SB 604-FN-A, making an appropriation to the university system of New Hampshire. Referred for interim study.

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
SB 474, relative to the effective date of the law regarding collection and reporting of abortion statistics. OTP by VV.

JUDICIARY
SB 467-FN, relative to the penalty for certain fentanyl-related offenses and establishing a mandatory minimum sentence for the crime of distribution of a controlled drug with death resulting. OTP by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 554, repealing the limitation of liability for certain design features of firearms. Special ordered to next session without objection.
SB 623-FN, relative to requirements for law enforcement officers assisting in immigration enforcement. Special ordered to next session without objection.
HB 186-FN-A, relative to the legalization and regulation of cannabis and making appropriations therefor. Special ordered to next session without objection.

Coming Up in the House
The full House will not meet in session next week.

Coming Up in House Committees 
You can watch the House hearings here. You can sign in for House bills here. And you can contact House committees here.

Monday, February 23

EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION, Room 232, GP
10:00 AM HB 1529, repealing the reading recovery training program. 
10:15 AM HB 1712, relative to charter conversion schools. 
10:30 AM HB 1155, relative to the home education advisory council. 
11:00 AM HB 1358, establishing a commission to study transitioning all public schools to public charter schools and relative to the method for converting to a charter school. 
1:00 PM HB 1804-FN, consolidating school administrative units, making chief school administrator jobs an elected position, and defining education roles.

HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS, Room 158, GP
9:00 AM HB 1790-FN, relative to involuntary admissions for certain individuals with a substance use disorder. 
10:00 AM HB 1773-FN, relative to food and drink purchased under SNAP, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program. 
11:00 AM HB 1071, repealing immunity afforded health care facilities when following directives adopted in response to the COVID-19 state of emergency. 
1:00 PM HB 1706-FN, repealing the refugee resettlement program in the department of health and human services and prohibiting expenditure of state funds on refugee resettlement.

Tuesday, February 24

ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE, Room 153, GP
1:00 PM HB 1478-FN, requiring the department of environmental services to revise the rules for proposed new landfills. 
2:00 PM HB 1189-FN, establishing a solid waste site evaluation committee.

Wednesday, February 25

HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS, Room 158, GP
9:30 AM HB 1117-FN, relative to the right of licensed health care providers to freely communicate with patients, colleagues, and the public about medical information, emerging therapies, and treatment options. 
10:30 AM HB 1449, limiting times vaccine clinics may operate at schools and requiring parents or legal guardians to be present with their child during the administration of vaccinations at such a clinic. 
1:00 PM HB 1797-FN, relative to eligibility for public assistance, including the New Hampshire employment program, family assistance program, and SNAP.

JUDICIARY, Room 230, GP 
10:00 AM HB 1416, prohibits certain government regulations regarding pregnancy resource centers in connection with abortion and contraception service offerings. 
10:30 AM HB 1456, repealing the legislature’s declaration of authority over public education.
1:00 PM HB 1590-FN, harmonizing the age of personhood under the criminal code and the fetal life protection act.
2:00 PM HB 1593-FN, relative to nondiscrimination due to disability.

Friday, February 27 

JUDICIARY, Room 230, GP 
9:00 AM HB 1611-FN, relative to the taking of private property. 
9:30 AM HR 41, instructing the house of representatives to investigate whether grounds exist to impeach Executive Councilor Karen Liot Hill.

Tuesday, March 3

TRANSPORTATION, Room 234, GP 
10:20 AM HB 1252, requiring the department of motor vehicles to only administer the skills test for commercial driver’s licenses in English and prohibiting the support of an interpreter for the administration of the skills test for commercial driver’s licenses.

Coming Up in the Senate 
The Senate will not meet in session next week.

Coming Up in Senate Committees
There are no Senate committee hearings next week, but we’ll share a few that are scheduled for the following week. You can watch the Senate hearings here. You can sign in for Senate bills here. And you can contact Senate committees here.

Tuesday, March 3

EDUCATION, Room Map Room, SL
9:30 AM HB 1808-FN-A, establishing the position of academic research and improvement performance data analyst in the department of education and making an appropriation therefor. 
9:45 AM HB 1832-FN, adding students with a parent or guardian on active military duty to the education freedom accounts priority guidelines. 
10:00 AM HB 709-FN, allowing parents or guardians to admit their children into any school district where they pay any property or school district taxes.

ELECTION LAW AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS, Room 122-123, SH
9:30 AM HB 348, relative to eligibility for local assistance.

Upcoming Events 
Want us to list your peace and justice-related event? Contact us at afscnh@afsc.org.

Every Third Tuesday
Protect, Resist and Build with AFSC– 8 PM to 9:30 PM. Hosted by AFSC. Monthly webinar series that brings together AFSC constituents to learn about how to protect, resist, and build just peace, just migration, and just economies.

Every Wednesday
Solemn Vigils for Ceasefire Now – 2 PM in Dover at the district offices of Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Congressman Chris Pappas. The February 25 vigil will be at Pappas' district office, 15 Third Street, Dover. The March 4 vigil will be at Shaheen’s office, 2 Washington Street, Dover; we gather at the entrance to Henry Law Park.  

Every First Wednesday
Mindful Meditation with Aryaloka Buddhist Center of Newmarket -  6 PM to 7 PM, Waysmeet, 15 Mill Road, Durham. Join us for a monthly, volunteer-led guided meditation. We have some cushions and yoga mats to share; you’re invited to bring whatever you may need to feel comfortable for 30 minutes of meditation. Free and open to all. For more information: waysmeetcenter.org/calendar.

Every Third Wednesday
Countering Christian Nationalism conversation – 7 PM, hosted by the NH Council of Churches, every third Wednesday of the month. Zoom link here.

Every Thursday 
Meeting for Worship with Attention to Peace in Palestine & Israel – 7:30 PM. Hosted by AFSC. Every week, AFSC’s Quaker Engagement team hosts Meeting for Worship virtually for Friends from across the globe. Embracing the practice of Quaker unprogrammed worship, we gather to bring our attention to witnessing injustice in our world and bolstering our solidarity with people facing oppression. Join us to explore and experience the spiritual dimensions of activism and social justice.

Solemn Vigils for Ceasefire Now – 12 noon at City Hall Plaza, in front of the State House, Concord.

Every Friday
AFSC Action Hour for a Ceasefire – 12 noon. Join AFSC staff every Friday to hear updates on what’s happening in Gaza. Then, take action with us as we contact Congress and call for a permanent cease-fire, arms embargo on Israel, and humanitarian access for Gaza. Our elected officials need to keep hearing from us!

Stronger Together: Protect Our Neighbors Weekly Visibility – 3 PM to 4 PM. Hosted by the Stronger Together Coalition. Corner of North Main Street and Loudon Road, Concord. Join us for a weekly visibility to stand against the war being raged against our communities. Our immigrant loved ones and neighbors are being targeted and kidnapped off the streets. Our public dollars are being funneled into a violent, bloated deportation and detention machine while local police are being weaponized against the communities they are supposed to serve, and life-giving programs are being defunded. Stand with us to protect our communities. All are welcome!

Every Second Saturday
Nashua Immigrant Solidarity Vigil – 12 PM to 1 PM, Hosted by Granite State Organizing Project (GSOP), at United Methodist Church, 154 Main Street, Nashua. Lately, the loudest voices have been those of hate and division.  This is our opportunity to show our community that there are people here who welcome immigrants.  Bring signs with positive messages.  

Sunday, February 22, 2026
On the Pulse of Morning: The Future of African Oratory – 2 PM, Portsmouth Public Library, 175 Parrott Ave, Portsmouth. This is an in-person and virtual event Hosted by Black Heritage Trail New Hampshire. African American oratory has long been a transformative force in U.S. history, serving as both culture expression and a tool of resistance that is still needed today. Inspired by Senator Cory Booker’s historic speech in Congress – the longest ever delivered in its chambers – BHTNH’s 2026 Tea Talk Series will honor the enduring legacy of African American speech as both an art and activism. Registration is required for both in-person and online participation. Seating is limited for in-person events. If the in-person event is full, please call the BHTNH office to be put on a waiting list, 603-570-8469.  

Arts and Advocacy: A Live Podcast Panel Discussion – 2 PM to 3 PM, Mosaic Art Collective, 66 Hanover Street, Suite 201, Manchester.  Creative Guts and Mosaic Art Collective are teaming up to present a live panel discussion, featuring a discussion and Q&A on how art can be used for advocacy. Moderated by host Joe Acone, this conversation will be recorded and released on the Creative Guts Podcast. Panelists include: Richard Haynes, Artist, Storyteller, Culture Keeper, and Culture Maker; Brenda Noiux, Activist Artist; and Aimee Terravechia, Executive Director of 603 Equality. This event is happening during Mosaic Art Collective's Peaceful Rebellion exhibition, which is on view until Friday, March 1, 2026. The exhibition celebrates the act of art making and the awareness and solace it provides us. Visit Events on our website to RSVP! Seating is limited.

Active Bystander Intervention and Law Enforcement/ICE Situations – 2 PM to 5 PM. Online event hosted by DC Peace Team. This training focuses on effective skills for assessing, de-escalating, and diffusing a harmful or inappropriate behavior (bullying, harassment, physical violence) in situations when ICE may arrive. It provides participants with the tools they need to quickly recognize when they are bystanders, evaluate the consequences for everyone involved, and take action. Our training sessions promote nonviolent alternative approaches for defusing harmful situations and engaging with the aggressor and those subject to harmful acts.    

*This advanced session will focus on the strategy of developing early response to ICE situations. It will include but not be limited to strategy for preparing to protect immigrants at a sensitive location, such as a school or religious community.

Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Lift Your Voice: A Public Witness for Immigrant Justice - 10 AM. Starting at Wesley United Methodist Church in Concord, people of many faith communities will come together in worship, moral courage, and solidarity before processing to the NH State House for a shared public witness. We will lift our voices in song together, deepening our community resolve and amplifying our message through music. All are invited to St. Paul's Episcopal Church afterward for a time of connection. Clergy are encouraged to wear suitable vestments as a visible sign of moral witness. This local event is part of a broader, nationwide day of action, paralleling the gathering in Washington, DC in support of immigrant justice.

A Just Peace in the Middle East Vigil – 2 PM to 3 PM, at the Office of Representative Chris Pappas, 15 Third Street, Dover. Hosted by NH Peace Action, NH Palestine Education Network and Veterans for Peace NH. This event is not a rally. It is a vigil and an expression of our steadfast commitment to human rights and peace for all people and the planet. We stand with all who are suffering of any nationality or religion and will deliver a letter to the Congressman. We act on our responsibility to end the U.S. supported human, health, and environmental devastation this violence is causing.  

Pembroke Community Conversation: Homelessness & Poverty – 7 PM to 8:30 PM, hosted by Christ Church PCA, 146 Sheep Davis Road, Pembroke. How do we respond to the challenge of neighbors struggling with lack of financial resources and stable housing? What does knowledgeable compassion look like? Join us for our second Pembroke Community Conversation. We'll hear from those who have experienced homelessness as well as community agencies working in the field. Come join the neighborly conversation. For more information, email pastorian@ccpcanh.org or call 603.225.7377.

Saturday, February 28, 2026
Queer De-Escalation & Self-Defense Training – 10 AM to 6 PM. Location will be shared with registrants. Hosted by 603 Equality; led by Impact Boston. This is a scenario-based training to develop verbal deescalation and basic physical self-defense skills specifically for the trans/queer/gender non-conforming community. This will include responses to bullying, harassment and bathroom enforcement scenarios. This training is centered in a trauma-informed, disability-aware, queer-positive, feminist approach, and your feelings are welcomed.  It is a seven-hour training, with active participation. We will provide lunch. Participants will sign a waiver form. Minors are welcome if a parent signs a waiver for them. Space is limited to 15-20 attendees.  We are requesting a donation of at least $25 to hold your space; please contact us if this is a barrier. Please contact us at deescalation@603equality.org to let us know if you have specific accessibility needs.

Witnessing for Justice: What’s Happening in Minnesota – 1 PM to 2 PM, at Concordia Lutheran Church, 211 N. Main Street, Concord.  Reverend Jon Hopkins (Lutheran) and Reverend Michael Leuchtenberger (Unitarian Universalist) who both were recently in Minnesota (January 21 - 24) will share experiences of what's happening on the ground and suggestions for how NH can take action to support and protect our immigrant neighbors. This is a hybrid event; to attend via livestream, on the day of the event, go to Concordia Lutheran Church's Facebook page or their website to find the link on their home page. 

Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Coexistence My Ass - A Film Screening – 7 PM, at Red River Theatre, 11 S. Main Street, Concord.  Hosted by Not in My Name NH. Disillusioned with politics, charismatic and engaging Noam Shuster Eliassi pivots to the world of stand-up comedy as a means of communicating her “radical” message that Palestinian and Israelis deserve the same equal human rights. Amber Fares’ fascinating film, alternating between hilarity and bone-shaking gravity, intersperses clips from Noam’s very funny stage performances with scenes of Noam interacting with her parents and her Palestinian best friend. Additionally, Noam contends with the media at large and her social media following, who are often frustratingly extreme in their attempts to pigeonhole her.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Coexistence My Ass - A Film Screening & Conversation – 7 PM, at 3S Artspace, Portsmouth. The screening will be followed by a Q&A facilitated by Not in My Name NH. The evening will also include a marketplace of Palestinian art and crafts, and olive oil from the West Bank.

Thursday, March 5, 2026
NH is NOT your Free State Project! - PROTEST – 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, at the State House, Concord. In 2003, a national libertarian group called the "Free State Project" targeted New Hampshire to move here and "take over state government." Since then, they have run and been elected as State legislators and have downloaded state costs to towns, causing property taxes to soar; defunded schools and harassed teachers; tried to "put a leash on" towns' freedom to budget as townspeople choose. The Free Staters are hosting their NH "Liberty" Forum in Concord March 5-8. They will be touring the NH State House Thursday afternoon.

Join us on the plaza in front of the State House arch to make clear that New Hampshire is not their Free State "Project" to turn into their "libertarian homeland." Sponsored by 50501 NH, Kent Street Coalition, Southern NH Indivisible and Granite State Matters. We are committed to peaceful, non-violent protest. No weapons.

Your Passion Your Leadership: Analyzing Power with Carin Schiewe– 6 PM to 7:30 PM, at Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover. This workshop is the first in our series “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates,” and will introduce participants to tools like power analyses and power mapping, helping leaders identify who holds influence in their respective communities, where gaps in representation exist, and how to strategically shift power in the direction of equity. Participants will learn how to identify where decisions about schools, healthcare, and local services are being made—and how best to influence them.

Saturday, March 7, 2026
No One Asked You (film screening) & Panel Discussion – 6 PM to 9 PM, Kittery Dance Hall, 7 Walker Street, Kittery, Maine. Comedian, disruptor-extraordinaire Lizz Winstead (co-creator of the Daily Show), and Abortion Access Front crisscross the U.S. to support abortion clinic staff and bust stigma.  Pop culture icons and next-gen comics fuel this six-year road film activating small-town folks to rebuild vandalized clinics, exposing wrongdoer politicians, anti-abortion extremist, and media neglect as the race to the bottom ensues and our rights burn down. No One Asked You is a bold call to action driven by the power of humor in social change, where joy prevails  $15 General admission. Event is hosted by Billie Butler, and panel curated by Lovering Health Center.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Seacoast Unity Hub – 6 PM to 8 PM, in Portsmouth. Location shared with registrants. Seacoast Unity Hub convenes people across the Seacoast who are committed to democracy, justice and courageous love. Through connection, reflection and shared learning, we support local efforts to resist authoritarianism and build a more resilient inclusive community. All are welcome. Light refreshments provided.

Thursday, March 12, 2026
How to Have Courageous Conversations – 6 PM to 8 PM, 21 Centre Street, Concord. This hybrid event is co-facilitated by James McKim and Rev. Kate Harmon Siberine. Join us for an interactive training that will equip participants with practical tools to host respectful, truth-seeking community conversations in a time of political division. The program helps neighbors create local public spaces where listening replaces labeling and common ground can emerge. Participants will leave more confident to convene conversations that foster belonging, clarity, and courageous civic engagement, and resist distortion of Jesus’ teachings. This program is part of the Countering Christian Nationalism project with examples drawn from how this ideology shows up in local communities and shapes public life. Childcare is available, please RSVP. Dinner will be served. Zoom attendees will only be able to watch, not engage in the training. Please plan to arrive by 5:50 PM so we can begin promptly at 6 PM. Registration is required.

Your Passion Your Leadership: Using Your Voice for Advocacy with Liz Tentarelli – 6 PM to 7:30 PM, at Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover.  This is the second workshop in our  series “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates.” From writing persuasive emails to calling elected officials and testifying at hearings, this workshop will equip participants with practical strategies to make their voices heard and influence important policy decisions at every level of government. Your presenter will be Liz Tentarelli, President of the League of Women Voters, NH. 

Thursday, March 19, 2026
Your Passion Your Leadership: Communications and Social Media – 6 PM to 7:30 PM, at Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover. This is the third workshop in our series “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates,” and will help you learn how to craft compelling messages, engage effectively on social media, and use communications tools to educate, mobilize, and grow your audience. Your presenter Kaylie Efstratiou is a policy and communications professional currently serving as Development and Communications Associate at Open Democracy, New Hampshire.

Saturday, March 21, 2026
Joyful Noise: Song for Justice, Belonging, & Community – 12 PM to 3 PM, State House Plaza, Concord, Hosted by New Hampshire Council of Churches. Community choruses, church choirs, school bands, a group of friends, a family. The NH Council of Churches invites you to join us to raise our voices to celebrate justice, belonging, and shared humanity through song in a joyful, welcoming, and public space.  Your group can select up to 3 songs that reflect the themes of justice, belonging, and/or community. Please provide lyrics so that everyone present may sing.

Thursday, March 26, 2026
Your Passion Your Leadership: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training – 6 PM to 7:30 PM, Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover. This is the fourth workshop in our series “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates” and will provide a hands-on, accessible session designed to build comfort with digital tools—covering everything from managing emails to Zoom meetings—so that every leader can confidently engage in advocacy and organizing in today's hyper-online world.  Your presenter Dr. Dottie Morris is the Associate Vice President for Institutional Equity and Diversity at Keene State College, where she provides leadership and guidance as the institution advances its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism. A member of the President’s Cabinet, Dr. Morris works across executive leadership, academic affairs, student engagement, advancement, and administration to embed equity and social justice throughout the college.

Saturday, March 28, 2026
No Kings III Dover – 11 AM to 1 PM, Lower Square (Central Ave & Washington), Dover. Hosted by Greater Seacoast Indivisible. 

No Thrones, No Crowns, No Kings in New Hampshire – Noon to 4 PM, at the State House, 107 North Main Street, Concord. Join us as we support the Constitution and reject authoritarianism! Hosted by 50501 NH.

No Kings III Nashua- 12 noon to 2 PM. Hosted by Gate City Voices at the Soldiers & Sailors Monument Nashua. Guest speakers, live music, rally energy, food & necessities drive.

No Kings Seacoast –1 PM to 3 PM, Market Square, Portsmouth. Come out to say no! No to the murder of US citizens, and anonymous "law enforcement" thugs. No to the attacks on Venezuela, and the threats to Iran and Greenland. Hosted by Occupy New Hampshire Seacoast, NH for Bernie Sanders, NH Labor for Bernie, Seacoast Overpass Light Brigade, and Occupy New Hampshire.

Thursday, April 2, 2026
Your Passion Your Leadership: Managing Great Volunteers – 6 PM to 7:30 PM, Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover. This is the fifth workshop in our series “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates,” and will focus on recruiting, training, and sustaining volunteers, with strategies for creating inclusive and energized teams that can carry the work forward. Your presenter MacKenzie Nicholson is a policy and advocacy leader and a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, holding a B.S. in Family Studies with a concentration in Child Advocacy and Family Policy, and an M.S. in Public Policy. She is currently Senior Director at MomsRising, where she leads advocacy efforts focused on policies impacting low-income families, pay equity, and health equity.

Thursday, April 9, 2026
Your Passion Your Leadership: Stories of Success – 6 PM to 7:30 PM, Hanover Howe Library, 13 South Street, Hanover. This is the sixth workshop in our series, “Your Passion, Your Leadership: A Workshop Series for Aspiring Women Advocates.” A panel of women community advocates will share firsthand experiences of organizing against harmful policies, building coalitions, and winning real victories, offering inspiration and practical lessons for participants’ own leadership journeys. Your presenter Zandra Rice Hawkins is a nonprofit executive director, former City Councilor, PTA volunteer, and longtime community advocate who believes deeply that we are stronger together. She is the Founding Executive Director of Granite State Progress, a statewide communications and research hub advancing progressive policy in New Hampshire.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Open Democracy Book Club: The Hard Work of Hope – 7 PM to 8:30 PM. The Hard Work of Hope takes you into the heady days of 1960s and 1970s activism, chronicling the hopes and strategies of the young people who created the movements that rocked the country. Hosted by Open Democracy.

Saturday, June 6, 2026
Windham Pride Festival – 12 PM to 4 PM, at Windham High School. Hosted by Windham Citizens for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This community favorite event is free and family friendly.  Come experience incredible live entertainment, delicious food trucks, and fun activities guaranteed to keep everyone entertained and engaged all day long. All this, while supporting our local LGBTQ+ community!

Sunday, June 7, 2026
Concord Pride 5K Run/Walk – 9 AM, at the NH State House, Concord. The Concord Pride 5K is back for year three!  Registration opens February 12 — stay tuned for more details!

With best wishes,
Maggie Fogarty, Maille & Kathleen Wooten, and April Richer

AFSC’s New Hampshire “State House Watch" newsletter is published to bring you information about matters being discussed in Concord including housing, the death penalty, immigration, education, civil liberties, and labor rights. We also follow the state budget and tax system, voting rights, corrections policy, and more. 

The AFSC is a Quaker organization supported by people of many faiths who care about peace, social justice, humanitarian service, and nonviolent change. Maggie Fogarty is the NH Director for AFSC which publishes this newsletter; April Richer is the NH Interfaith Organizer. Maille Wooten, in partnership with Kathleen Wooten, is AFSC’s State House Watch researcher and database manager.

"State House Watch" is made possible with your financial support. Click the DONATE NOW button on our web page to send a secure donation to support the work of the AFSC’s New Hampshire Program. Thank you!